Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has announced new measures to combat corruption and crime in the province through enhanced law enforcement capabilities.
In a recent statement, Lesufi revealed that the Gauteng government held meetings with Police Minister Senzo Mchunu over the past two months to present strategic plans targeting high-level criminal activities in the province.
“The Minister of Police suggested we combine our resources rather than compete, and strategically deploy personnel to key areas,” Lesufi said.
He acknowledged the need for discretion in implementing these plans. “We must be cautious about announcing our readiness, as it alerts those we aim to apprehend,”
The Premier outlined plans to deploy senior law enforcement officers to crime hotspots, including areas affected by illegal development and problematic Spaza shops. One immediate focus is Jukulyn in Soshanguve, where criminal activity has severely impacted essential services.
“The situation in Jukulyn is critical. Delivery vehicles and emergency services, including ambulances, cannot enter the area without police escort due to frequent robberies and shootings,” Lesufi explained.
He highlighted known vehicle theft hotspots in the province, including Vosloorus, Alexandra, and Tembisa. “We plan to implement enhanced security systems on roads leading to these areas to combat vehicle theft,” he said.
The Premier reported success in reducing gang activity in certain areas, citing recent police feedback on their interventions.
Looking ahead, Lesufi announced plans to modernise vehicle identification systems across Gauteng. “We’re working to implement digital number plates that cannot be easily removed or falsified. Even if criminals remove the plate, we’ll still be able to identify the vehicle,” he said.
“These technological innovations are part of our comprehensive strategy to fight corruption and crime in our province,” Lesufi concluded.
